Spring is finally here, which means the Easter Bunny can't be far behind. Get into the spirit of the holiday with colorful crafts, tasty treats, and lots of trips outside to enjoy the spring air. Cheapism.com rounded up some affordable ways to enjoy the annual holiday with friends and family.
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With just a few weeks left before the tax filing deadline, many of us are scrambling to find last-minute deductions. Most tax-savings strategies must be implemented during the previous calendar year, but one popular strategy is still in play. Contributions to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) are tax deductible and can be made right up until April 15. Save for your future and save on taxes now -- it's a win-win situation.
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The good news about high school proms is that the average spend for this special night has dropped to less than $1,000, according to Visa, Inc., and the kids are picking up a bigger portion of the tab themselves. The lion's share, not surprisingly, is destined for the dress. For girls determined to have a red carpet moment, the price tag could easily hit $400. Guys don't get off cheaply, either -- tux rentals commonly run $170 to $200 for a basic get-up. Don't panic. A little savvy, some ingenuity, and a few coupons can keep the cost of prom attire well below $150.
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The one day a year everyone gets to feel extra special is the perfect opportunity to show your love. Choosing just the right birthday gift for partners, family, and friends can be stressful, but finding more than a trifle when constrained by a tight budget only adds to the anxiety. If you buy the notion that dollar signs are no measure of how much you care, these inexpensive gift ideas signal to the people in your life that giving truly comes from the heart.
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It may be tempting to revisit a favorite spot on your next trip out of the country. Perhaps you enjoy exploring the ruins of Rome or partying the night away in Cancun. But there are equally exciting -- and cheaper -- options if you know where to look. Some are well-known overseas but new to American travelers, while others are just developing as international hot spots. All offer inexpensive lodging and meals along with the thrill of discovering a new place. And while flights overseas can be expensive, many online resources can direct you to the best fares.
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National Car Month starts next week. Get into gear with our guide to purchasing a car online at a discounted price. Stock up for spring with cute kids' outfits and second-hand bargains. It's also time to start planning for prom and an inexpensive summer vacation.
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Awards season has ended, but that doesn't stop our obsession with the most glamorous red carpet looks. Whether it was the Grammy Awards or the Academy Awards, celebrities paraded down the runway decked out in custom designer dresses, jumpsuits, and even corsets. Outfit envy? Cheapism.com located 11 bargain alternatives -- all costing less than $30 -- to this season's top ensembles, including Iggy Azalea's royal blue cutout and Taylor Swift's high-low turquoise gown.
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Spring is in the air and people are starting to feel the urge to clean up and clean out the winter clutter. That means garage sales are popping up and local thrift stores will be brimming with gently used items that may be your next big treasure. Before diving headlong into second-hand shopping, peruse Cheapism.com's guide to the best things to buy at the local thrift store.
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The Internet has changed the car-buying process. Thanks to websites like AutoTrader and Craigslist, shoppers can peruse new and used vehicles all over the country from the comfort of their living room. Wholesale and retail pricing information is readily available, making it easier to negotiate a good deal. And new web-based services help take the aggravation and uncertainty out of buying a car. Here are five tips for how to save when buying a new or used car.
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Whether you are having a formal dinner party or just a casual meal, it's important to start things off right. Fine cheeses and store-bought delicacies are delicious but expensive, especially when there are a lot of mouths to feed. Cheapism.com rounded up some inexpensive appetizers that are just as tasty, offering everything from light and healthy treats to indulgent classics.
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If you've ever seen the MTV show "My Super Sweet 16," then you know about the parents who spare no expense to indulge their child's every desire for one birthday party extravaganza. Judging from our research, this kind of out-of-control spending doesn't break out just for the Sweet 16, but for every birthday party leading up to it. We've read about a themed birthday party for a child turning five that included pony rides, a rented merry-go-round, giant inflatables, hired magicians, and, well, more, for a final tab in the neighborhood of $6,000. Frugal parents, unite.
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Summer is prime time for a family getaway. If you're concerned about costs, now's the moment to start planning a fun summer vacation that fits your budget. Whether your family enjoys the great outdoors or prefers the air-conditioned indoors, we've got you covered with a list of 10 cheap summer family vacations.
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Prom is supposed to be a night for creating lasting memories, not a lasting dent in your wallet. Last year families with teenagers spent nearly $1,000 on that magical night, according to a survey by Visa, Inc. But savvy parents can send their teens to prom in style for a whole lot less.
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Most of us need some snacks to get through the day, but packaged snacks can be expensive and high in calories. Making healthy snacks at home cuts down on both calories and cost. Cheapism.com serves up 10 homemade snack ideas that are inexpensive and good for your health.
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